On the eve of Mexico’s Día de las Madres, families prepare serenades, flowers and heartfelt tributes rooted in a tradition dating back to 1922—distinct from this year’s U.S. observance on May 11.
With May 10 upon us, Mexico is abuzz its annual Día de las Madres celebrations. While many countries—including the United States—observe Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May (this year falling on May 11), Mexico’s tribute to maternal figures has been firmly cemented on May 10 since its institutionalization in 1922. Across the nation, media outlets, florists, restaurants and families alike are highlighting the holiday’s nearly century-old roots and the cherished customs that have come to define it.
The modern Día de las Madres in Mexico was formalized almost a century ago by José Vasconcelos, Mexico’s then–Secretary of Education. Inspired by earlier, localized observances and driven by a desire to reinforce family values in the wake of the Mexican Revolution, Vasconcelos declared May 10 as a national holiday dedicated to honoring mothers. Schools, churches and civic groups quickly embraced the date, organizing poetry readings, musical performances and public ceremonies. Though the holiday carries no religious connotation, many communities incorporate serenades—particularly the mariachi tradition—into their celebrations, underscoring the fusion of secular and folkloric expressions of gratitude.
In homes across Mexico, the day typically begins with children bringing breakfast in bed: trays often feature traditional pan dulce, freshly brewed café de olla or hot chocolate, and homemade tortillas. By mid-morning, families converge on florists’ stalls, where vivid displays of roses, lilies, gladiolus and carnations command brisk sales. Florists in Mexico City report that their busiest hours fall between 8:00 a.m. and noon on May 9 and 10, with some establishments doubling their staff to keep up with demand.
“We expect to sell more than 10,000 stems over these two days,” says Ana Torres, owner of Rosa María Florería in the historic Centro district. “Many customers still believe that no gift is complete without a beautiful bouquet, and it’s common for husbands and children alike to surprise mom with flowers delivered at her workplace.”
Restaurants and cafés also gear up for a surge in patronage. Brunch reservations in upscale neighborhoods like Polanco and Condesa often fill weeks in advance, while family-style eateries tailor special menus featuring favorites such as chiles en nogada, mole poblano and tres leches cake. According to the National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (CANIRAC), Mother’s Day accounts for a 20 percent increase in restaurant revenues compared to a typical May weekend.
Beyond commerce, many Mexicans emphasize the emotional core of Día de las Madres. It remains a day to reflect on the sacrifices and guidance of maternal figures—whether biological mothers, grandmothers or community caregivers. Social media platforms are flooded with hashtags like #FelizDíaDeLasMadres, #TeAmoMamá and #GraciasPorTodo, accompanied by family photos and video montages. Local radio stations often dedicate entire programming blocks to mothers, accepting live call-ins, playing audience-requested songs, and inviting listeners to record heartfelt dedications.
In rural communities, the observance can take on distinctive flavors. In parts of Oaxaca and Chiapas, for instance, families weave traditional garments or prepare local delicacies as gifts. Communal gatherings in town plazas may feature folk dancing and regional music, reinforcing the role of mothers not just as family anchors but as preservers of cultural heritage.
While the U.S. celebration falls on May 11 in 2025, the two countries’ observances highlight different historical narratives. In the United States, Mother’s Day traces back to the efforts of Anna Jarvis in the early 20th century and gained federal recognition in 1914. Mexico’s adoption of May 10 followed shortly thereafter but has evolved with its own uniquely Mexican identity—one that blends pre-Hispanic reverence for motherhood with post-revolutionary nation-building.
For many Mexican-Americans living in the U.S., honoring mothers can involve juggling both dates. “My family holds a small ceremony on the American date and then joins relatives in Mexico via video call on May 10,” explains María López, who lives in Los Angeles. “It’s a way to stay connected and celebrate mom across borders.”
As the clock ticks down to May 10, television broadcasts are set to feature documentaries on the holiday’s origins, while newspapers and digital outlets publish photo essays capturing mothers at work, at home and in their communities. Health authorities also use the occasion to promote maternal wellness, encouraging women to seek regular check-ups and mental health support.
By evening on May 10, many families will come together for dinner—often a multi-generational affair that extends late into the night. Cards and small tokens, such as jewelry, perfume or handcrafted items, are exchanged alongside promises of gratitude and affection.
Ultimately, Mexico’s Día de las Madres remains a vibrant testament to the country’s deep respect for motherhood. From historic ceremonies in the nation’s capital to intimate gatherings in remote villages, the holiday continues to unite generations in celebration of the women who shape Mexican life and culture. As the nation looks forward to tomorrow’s festivities, one thing is certain: on May 10, Mexican mothers are front and center, celebrated in a tradition as enduring as motherhood itself.
